The historic Franklin Building at Vanderbilt University has been renewed as the Margaret Cuninggim Women’s Center, balancing preservation with modern functionality. The design adapts the structure to meet contemporary accessibility and code requirements while highlighting its defining central chimney through a circular gallery surrounded by functional spaces aligned with original openings. A new stair and elevator tower, connected by a glass link, was added to the south lawn to provide vertical circulation, carefully echoing the building’s materials and proportions without overshadowing its historic character. Salvaged details, including original support brackets, reinforce continuity, resulting in a thoughtful transformation that secures the building’s legacy while supporting its future use.
Recognition:
ARCHITECTURAL AWARD Historical Commission of Metropolitan Nashville Davidson County
AWARD OF CITATION American Institute of Architects, Middle Tennessee Chapter
AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Masonry Institute of Tennessee
Owner/Client: Margaret Cuninggim Women’s Center | Vanderbilt University
Project Location: Nashville, Tennessee
Project Type: Renovation / Restoration | Higher Education
Building Area: 2,290 sq. ft. (existing) 566 sq. ft. (new)
